
Chapter 10 Verse 42
Vibhūti Yog
अथवा बहुनैतेन किं ज्ञातेन तवार्जुन। विष्टभ्याहमिदं कृत्स्नमेकांशेन स्थितो जगत्।।10.42।।
atha vā bahunaitena kiṁ jñātena tavārjuna viṣhṭabhyāham idaṁ kṛitsnam ekānśhena sthito jagat
Word Meanings
| athavā | or |
| bahunā | detailed |
| etena | by this |
| kim | what |
| jñātena tava | can be known by you |
| arjuna | Arjun |
| viṣhṭabhya | pervade and support |
| aham | I |
| idam | this |
| kṛitsnam | entire |
| eka | by one |
| anśhena | fraction |
| sthitaḥ | am situated |
| jagat | creation |
Translation
But, of what avail is the knowledge of all these details to you, O Arjuna? I exist, supporting this whole world with one part of Myself.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse reminds us that endless facts and details are not the same as true understanding. The speaker points out that the whole world is supported by a single part of the Divine. Knowing many pieces does not automatically reveal the one reality that holds them together.
It teaches the unity behind diversity: everything flows from and rests in a simple, supporting presence. True wisdom is seeing and trusting that underlying support rather than getting lost in surface differences.
It also invites humility. We cannot grasp the infinite by collecting facts alone. What matters more is recognizing and resting in the source that sustains life.
Life Application
- When you feel overwhelmed by information or choices, pause and look for the simple, steady source that supports your life—your values, faith, or inner calm—rather than trying to control every detail.
- Practice trusting and letting go: do your part, then rely on the larger support (whether called God, the universe, or the whole) instead of forcing certainty about everything.
- Cultivate small daily practices (quiet moments, gratitude, prayer, or mindful breathing) to connect with the deeper presence that holds things together.
Reflection Question
Do you seek security in knowing every detail, or in trusting the deeper presence that supports your life?

